Business environment in Algeria

Business environment in Algeria

POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT
Terrorist violence in Algeria resulted in more than 150,000 deaths during the 1990s. Although the security situation in the country has improved, addressing the underlying issues that brought about the political turmoil of the 1990s remains the government's major task. President Blouselike implemented the Charter on Peace and National Reconciliation on March 1, 2006, as one way to bring closure. Thus far, it has successfully gained the surrender of a number of moderate Islamists but, paradoxically, has emboldened the more hard-core elements, in particular the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC), which merged with al-Qaida in September 2006, and changed its name in January 2007 to al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). In keeping with its amended Constitution, the Algerian Government espouses participatory democracy and free-market competition. The government has stated that it will continue to open the political process and encourage the creation of political institutions. Presidential elections took place in April 2009 and returned President Bouteflika to office for a third term. The next presidential elections are scheduled for 2014. Algeria has more than 45 daily newspapers published in French and Arabic, with a total circulation of more than 1.5 million copies. There are 20 domestically printed weekly publications with total circulation of 622,000 and 11 monthly publications with total circulation of 600,000. In 2001, the government amended the Penal Code provisions relating to defamation and slander, a step widely viewed as an effort to rein in the press. While the Algerian press is relatively free to write as it chooses, use of the defamation laws significantly increased the level of press harassment following President Bouteflika's April 2004 re-election victory and, as a result, the press began to censor itself. In July 2006, President Bouteflika pardoned all journalists convicted of defaming or insulting state institutions. The pardon effectively dismissed the charges against 67 people. Critics point out that, according to the criminal code, insulting the president is punishable by prison sentence. Nevertheless, the pardon was widely seen as a significant step toward democracy. The government holds a monopoly over broadcast media; however, Algerian
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newspapers are widely seen to be among the freest in the region. Editors of major Arabic- and French-language print dailies often complain of the governments reluctance to share information, grant interviews, or relax its defamation law. Under this law, a joint criminalcivil lawsuit can be brought against a newspapers publisher, editor in chief, and the reporting journalist, which can result in fines, a jail sentence, and civil liability. Population growth and associated problems--unemployment and underemployment, inability of social services to keep pace with rapid urban migration, inadequate industrial management and productivity, a decaying infrastructure--continue to affect Algerian society. Increases in the production and prices of oil and gas over the past decade have led to foreign exchange reserves exceeding an estimated $150 billion in 2010. The government began an economic reform program in 1994, focusing on macroeconomic stability and structural reform that has met with some success in certain sectors. At the start of his third term in office, President Bouteflika announced that his five-year plan (20092014) would include an increase from $120 billion to $150 billion in spending to improve national infrastructure, create three million jobs, and build one million new homes.

Post independence Politics and the Socialist Tradition:

Algeria's current political culture is a result of the French colonial legacy, the War of Independence, the Arab and Islamic cultural traditions and the part these play in national unity and cohesion, and the integral role of the military. The consolidation of authority and the institutionalization of political structure characterized the post independence years as the new Algerian nation struggled to overcome the instability of the revolutionary period. National integrity and national institutions were viewed as equally important as Algeria worked to consolidate its independent political structure and tradition and to overcome the administrative and economic vacuum that resulted from the departure of most Europeans who had lived in Algeria.

Business environment in Algeria

ALGERIAN POLITICAL CULTURE

Algerian Political Culture and government reflect the impact of the country's colonial history and its cultural identification. The legacy of the revolutionary War of Independence (1954-62) and its lingering implications are still evident in recent political events and in the evolution of political processes. A strong authoritative tendency and the supremacy of the military, both remnants of the war for liberation, have resulted in a sharply divided society in which the political elite remains highly remote from, and generally unaccountable to, the masses of its impoverished, unemployed, and dissatisfied citizens. State-supported socialism, largely fed by petroleum exports, and "depoliticization" of the masses during the 1970s replaced any real source of legitimacy for the regime and left the masses almost no form of political expression short of violent confrontation. The consequences of this political tradition materialized in January 1992 when a conservative military coup overturned four years of significant political and economic liberalization undertaken by President Chadli Benjedid in the late 1980s. Benjedid's extensive political and economic reforms, pursued to restore political legitimacy and public confidence in the government leadership, had opened the way for political opposition. The rise of the Islamic Salvation Front (Front Islamique du Salut--FIS) as the most significant opposition group threatened to challenge the secular orientation of the state. The coup took place only days before the second round of the first freely contested national elections, elections that were likely to usher in a new government dominated by Islamists (sometimes seen as fundamentalists). Since then, the virtual elimination of constitutional government and the resurrection of military authoritarianism have returned Algeria to the familiar situation of placing power in the hands of small elite, nullifying almost all of the democratic freedoms and many of the free-market reforms of the preceding few years.

Business environment in Algeria

Algeria's bloody overthrow of colonial rule resulted in independence in 1962 and a legacy of an authoritarian political structure dominated by several competing interests. The main actors in the national revolution continued to govern the Algerian polity after independence, struggling during the immediate post independence period and throughout post independence Algerian history for political control. This tradition has evolved into a triangular system of government in which the army, party, and state apparatus share power but continually compete. Benjedid's reforms in the 1980s effectively eliminated the party (the National Liberation Front--Front de Libration Nationale-- FLN) from a prominent position in the political configuration while strengthening his hand as president through constitutional reforms. The military, also having suffered a reduction of authority with the political changes implemented by the 1989 constitution, appeared to have little tolerance for the liberalization visualized by Benjedid and the more liberal faction of the FLN. Resurfacing in the early 1990s to "ensure the security of the state," the military has demonstrated once again that the army remains the dominant arm of the political triangle. Recent political events are as much a reflection as a determinant of political culture in Algeria. The nation in late 1993 was under a state of emergency, its condition since the military coup in January 1992. Martial law ruled, essentially invalidating all political structures and institutions. The outcome of this period will be determined not only by the political leaders but also by civil society, political competition within the state, and by mass culture. If the Algerian state is to overcome its political crisis, it needs to resolve its myriad socioeconomic problems. If it is to successfully conquer its economic problems, it will need to become more democratic and decentralized. The current situation is potentially dangerous because of the explosive nature of the political tensions inherent in the repression of a discontented population.

Business environment in Algeria

POLITICAL RISK- Extremist Forces

New efforts have been launched by the Algerian authorities to curb and at the same time asses the influence of 'extremist' influences on public practice of Islam. According to the Minister for Religious Affairs Algeria is 'going though a 'severe cultural and religious crisis'. There are reports that Qur'ans being forged and mosques are being used for 'jihads' purposes - raising fears of a return to radicalisation of the populace in a country which was embroiled in a civil war in the 1990s. We continue to see the risks to stability in the medium term as limited given the lack of public appetite for a return to conflict and positive developments on national reconciliation. However, dangerously high levels of youth unemployment and widespread poverty pose a risk in terms of heightened social unrest over the long term. Our short-term political rating remains at 70.0.

ECONOMIC RISK - Inflation Worries

A corollary of robust growth and massive inflows of oil revenues, which is funding a massive expansion of the budget, is raising inflationary pressures. The year-on-year (y-o-y) consumer price inflation index climbed to 5.6%, the highest level seen since March 2004. Foodstuffs, manufactured goods and services in particular saw the biggest rises. While the y-o-y average for 2006, at 2.5% was below official expectations of 3.5% y-o-y, we see further upside pressures on prices in 2007. Going forward, though, the extensive nets of subsidies are likely to mask this considerably. Our short-term economic rating stays at 83.0.

Business environment in Algeria

BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT - A Gas OPEC?

Fears of a 'Gas OPEC' have been voiced repeatedly in recent months following the signing of a MoU on gas co-operation in August 2006 between Algeria and Russia. Indeed, any such moves are unlikely to please the investor community or consumers of Algerian gas. Foreign operators in Algeria have already been disturbed by the government's decision to reverse its energy sector liberalisation due to 'political' considerations and any further moves towards resource nationalism may raise levels of uncertainty with regards to the country's economic liberalisation efforts. Our short-term composite rating is 76.2. Our business environment rating is 32.3.

Business environment in Algeria

SOCIAL & CULTURAL ENVIORNMENT:

Social Etiquette and Customs in Algeria

Meeting & Greeting
1. Algerians greet each other with lengthy affairs. 2. In addition to the handshake one is obliged to ask about family, work, the house, the weather, etc. 3. This is all part of cementing a relationship and showing concern for others. 4. You may see people continue to hold hands after the initial handshake is a sign of warmth. 5. Friends and family will also exchange kisses on the check. 6. When meeting women initially nod and wait to see if a hand is extended. 7. Avoid prolonged eye contact with women and do not ask personal questions. 8. For women visiting Algeria note that religious men may not shake your hands - this is not a sign of disrespect but quite the opposite.

Names and Titles

1. The use of titles in important in Algeria due to the hierarchical nature of the society. 2. When introduced to someone, try to call them by their honorific, professional, or academic title and their surname. 3. As most people speak French and Arabic titles may be in either. 4. Common titles are "doctor", "professor", and "lawyer" in English or "docteur", "professeur", and "avocat" in French. Some religious scholars may be called "Sheikh"

Business environment in Algeria

Gift Giving Etiquette

Gift giving is a part of Algerian culture that is used to cement relationships. The gesture of giving is more important than the gift. In social settings some of these tips may come in handy: 1. When invited to an Algerian's home, bring pastries, fruit, or flowers. 2. Roses or tulips make good gifts. 3. Violets as they symbolize sadness. 4. Children will always appreciate sweets! 5. Do not bring alcohol unless you are sure they partake. 6. Gifts are not usually opened when received. 7. Give gifts with the right or both hands.

Dining and Eating Etiquette

Algerians love both hospitality and food. If you are invited to home consider it an honour. Remember your host will more than likely be a Muslim so there are some initial facts to be aware of: 1. Don't bring alcohol 2. Remove shoes at the door 3. Men and women will be seated separately 4. Dress modestly (especially women) Other tips include: 5. When you enter a room with people always greet the eldest first. The move around the room from your right greeting people individually. 6. It would be polite for a woman to offer to help the hostess with the preparation / clearing this will most likely be declined, but the offer will be appreciated.

Business environment in Algeria

Watch your Table Manners!

1. There are several ways of dining such as sitting at low couches around a big table or on mats on the floor around a low table. 2. Try and wash your hands before and after the meal. 3. Food is usually eaten by hand. 4. Couscous is eaten with a tablespoon while stew is eaten with a fork. 5. If in doubt follow people sitting near you. 6. Only use the right hand for eating and for passing dishes. 7. You will be urged to take more food. Try and start off with small portions so you can take more from the main dish and appear to have eaten a greater quantity. 8. Leave food on your plate or it will be filled up again.

Algerian Business Etiquette, Customs and Protocol

The Relationship
1. The importance of personal relationships can not be underestimated. Always invest in building trust and rapport. 2. You will notice that Algerians do not leave a great deal of personal space between each other. If someone stands close to you or holds your arm, do not back away. 3. Preserving honour/reputation is important. Algerians will try to preserve their reputations telling people what they think they want to hear even if it is not the truth. 4. It is important to bear this in mind when communicating with Algerians, i.e. do not cause them to lose face especially in public. 5. Within Algeria the "you scratch my back and I scratch yours" mentality works. Try and do favours for people as this will mean they owe you one back.

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Business Cards
1. There is no formal ritual surrounding business cards. 2. It may be a good idea to have them translated into French or Arabic.

3. Always use the right hand to give and receive.

Business Meetings
1. Appointments are necessary and should be made as far in advance as possible and confirmed a day or two before the meeting. 2. It is best to avoid scheduling meetings during Ramadhan. 3. Remember Fridays are a Muslim holiday so most companies will be closed. 4. Try to arrive at meetings on time and be prepared to wait. Algerian businesspeople who are accustomed to dealing with international companies often strive to arrive on time, although it is often difficult for them to do so in such a relationship driven culture. 5. In general, Algerians have an open-door policy, even during meetings. This means you may experience frequent interruptions. Others may even wander into the room and start a different discussion. You may join in, but do not try to bring the topic back to the original discussion until the new person leaves. 6. French and Arabic are generally the language of business, although some companies use English.

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FOREIGN ECONOMIC RELATIONS

In its foreign economic relations, Algeria is seeking more trade and foreign investment. For example, Algerias hydrocarbons law passed in April 2005 is designed to encourage foreign investment in energy exploration. Increased production could raise Algerias profile as a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. In keeping with its pro-trade agenda, Algeria achieved association status with the European Union (EU) in September 2005. Over a 12-year period, the association agreement is expected to enable Algeria to export goods to the EU tariff-free, while it gradually lifts tariffs on imports from the EU. Algeria has signed bilateral investment agreements with 20 different nations, including many European countries, China, Egypt, Malaysia, and Yemen. In July 2001, the United States and Algeria agreed on a framework for discussions leading to such an agreement, but a final treaty has not yet been negotiated. Ultimately, trade liberalization, customs modernization, deregulation, and banking reform are designed to improve the countrys negotiating position as it seeks accession to the World Trade Organization. In 2007 Algerian imports totalled US$26.08 billion. The principal imports were capital goods, foodstuffs, and consumer goods. The top import partners were France (22 percent), Italy (8.6 percent), China (8.5 percent), Germany (5.9 percent), Spain (5.9 percent), the United States (4.8 percent), and Turkey (4.5 percent). In 2007 Algeria exported US$63.3 billion, more than twice as much as it imported. Exports accounted for 30 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). Hydrocarbon products constituted at least 95 percent of export earnings. The principal exports were petroleum, natural gas, and petroleum products. The top export partners were the United States (27.2 percent), Italy (17 percent), Spain (9.7 percent), France (8.8 percent), Canada (8.1 percent), and Belgium (4.3 percent). Algeria supplies 25 percent of the European Unions natural gas imports. In 2007 Algeria posted a positive merchandise trade balance of US$37.2 billion. In 2007 Algeria achieved a positive current account balance of US$31.5 billion. High prices for Algerias energy exports are the main driver for the improvement in the current account balance.

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Algeria's trade surplus for 2010 has risen to over $83.14 billion. The Algerian Centre for Information and Statistics Directorate of the Algerian Customs attribute this increase from last year due to higher fuel revenue due to the high price of a barrel of oil, and the slight decrease in imports of consumer non-food materials. The centre said that Algerian exports rose by 78.26% during the period from January to November 2010 from $27.51 billion to $44.4 billion during the same period in 2009. Imports grew by 89.1% from $43.36 billion to $76.35 billion between 2009 and 2010. Reflecting strong oil export revenues, external debt is on a downward trajectory. For example, these revenues facilitated early repayments of US$900 million in loans from the African Development Bank and Saudi Arabia. In March 2006, Algerias purchase of 78 aircraft from Russia led to the cancellation of Algerias entire debt to Russia. In 2006 external debt was estimated at US$4.4 billion, down from US$23.5 billion in 2003. In 2006 foreign direct investment (FDI) in Algeria totalled US$1.8 billion. The petrochemical, transport, and utilities sectors have been recent beneficiaries of FDI. FDI into the oil sector was expected to rise as a result of a hydrocarbons law, approved in April 2005 that created a more even playing field for foreign oil companies to compete with Algerias state-owned oil company, Sonatrach, for exploration and production contracts. Algeria also is seeking foreign investment in power and water systems. As of August 2006, cumulative World Bank assistance to Algeria totalled US$5.9 billion, encompassing 72 projects. Currently, the World Bank is pursuing seven projects, specifically budget modernization, mortgage finance, natural disaster recovery, energy and mining, rural employment, telecommunications, and transportation. In 2005 economic assistance to Algeria from the United States amounted to US$4.4 million, most of which was attributable to the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and the remainder to International Military Education and Training (IMET). MEPI encourages economic, political, and educational reform in the Middle East. In 2006 IMET, which provides U.S. military training to foreign troops, had a budget of US$823 million.

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Business environment in Algeria

LEGAL ENVIRONMENT

Legal system: mixed legal system of French civil law and Islamic law; judicial review of legislative acts in ad hoc Constitutional Council composed of various public officials including several Supreme Court justices Definition: This entry contains a brief description of the legal system's historical roots, role in government, and acceptance of International Court of Justice (ICJ) jurisdiction.

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Business environment in Algeria

Algeria and the US combine forces in SCIENCE & TECHONOLOGY:

Algeria and the United States last week (14 August) ratified a second agreement to cooperate in science and technology. The agreement extending over the next five years is intended to pave the way toward scientific cooperation in several areas between US and Algerian institutes and scientists. The fields targeted are seismology and applied research into earthquakeresistant engineering, industrial research, agriculture, energy, space, health, Internet communication technology, environment and biodiversity protection, water resources management and marine research. The two countries will exchange expertise and training sessions, as well as organise scientific forums and joint research projects between the public and private sectors in both the Algeria and the United States. The agreement also calls for enhanced cooperation between Maghreb countries Algeria, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia though experts from other countries are invited to participate. This is the second agreement in the 'Algeria-US Science and Technology Cooperation Convention', signed in January 2006 by Algerian higher education and scientific research minister Rachid Hraoubia, and Paula Dobriansky, US under secretary of state for democracy and global affairs. The first result of the convention occurred in June this year: an agreement to cooperate in the civil use of nuclear energy and nuclear waste management, as well as environment control and electricity generation. Algerian energy and mines minister, Chakib Khelil, described the June agreement as a "historical moment" and a good start for permanent bilateral cooperation between Algeria and the United States in the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, reported the Algerian Press Service. Abdel-Karim Allan, an environmental science expert at the Algerian Environment Ministry, told SciDev.Net that the agreements would contribute to the development of technologies to preserve Algeria's environment. "We expect that Algeria will acquire considerable experience in the field of waste recycling to protect our environment from pollution and preserve the rich biodiversity that Algeria enjoys," he said.

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Judicial System
Algeria Table of Contents The judicial system, in common with other aspects of Algeria's culture, shares features of its French and Arab traditions. Throughout the French colonial period, secular courts prevailed as the final judicial authority, although Islamic sharia courts had jurisdiction over lower level cases, including civil cases, criminal offenses, family law, and other personal matters. Secular courts in Algeria owed their existence to the earlier Turkish administrative control, however, not French imposition. The French courts replaced the Turkish courts and, in so doing, modified them to reflect French principles of justice. The secular courts were authorized to review sharia court decisions, although for the majority of Algerians, the sharia court was the final source of judicial authority. Following independence in 1962, the government promised to create a new judicial system that would eliminate the French colonial legacy and reflect more accurately the ideological orientation of the new state, which was committed both to socialism and the Arab and Islamic tradition. The revised legal system was not created until 1975, under Boumediene, when new civil and criminal codes were announced. These codes reflected the divergent nature of socialist and traditional Islamic notions of justice. Family law, personal status (especially regarding the rights of women), and certain criminal penalties were divisive issues and many were simply omitted from the new judicial codes. In the 1980s, Benjedid proposed a family code, which drew extensive public criticism but was ultimately passed in 1984. Judges are appointed by the executive branch, and their appointment may be challenged only by the High Judicial Council. Judges are not tenured, although they remain relatively free from political pressure. The 1976 constitution asserted a judicial responsibility to uphold the principles of the revolution; this commitment has lessened in importance, however, as Algeria has

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moved away from its socialist origins. The judicial tradition has stipulated that defendants be fully aware of the charges against them, that they have free access to legal counsel, and that they be able to contest a judicial outcome in a court of appeal. The constitution upholds basic principles of personal liberty and justice and prohibits the unnecessary holding of individuals for questioning for longer than forty-eight hours. Under Benjedid's political liberalization, constitutional respect for individual freedoms expanded. A number of political prisoners were released, and the elimination of exit visas and the legalization of political associations facilitated the exercise of free speech, movement, and expression. Individual freedoms were, however, subordinate to military concerns and issues of national security and have been regularly suspended under periods of martial law. The military leadership in the early 1990s suspended almost all institutions of state, including those of the judicial branch. Islamist leaders and other criminal offenders have been tried by military tribunals and have received heavy sentences of imprisonment or death. The HCE, as the military presidency, is an authoritarian government responsible only to itself. Even at the best of times, the executive is not subordinate to the judicial branch, the president serving as head of the High Judicial Council. In the early 1990s, however, cases arising out of the state of emergency as opposed to ordinary civil or criminal cases have been assigned to the military tribunals.

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ALGERIA TAKES STEPS TO IMPROVE BUSINESS ENVIORONMENT:

Algiers-A tripartite meeting between government, employers and the syndical federation in Algeria led here on Sunday to practical decisions to boost the national economic. PM Ahmed Ouyahia admitted, at the opening of this meeting, that the business climate in Algeria was not conductive to private investment despite government efforts to remove obstacles for its improvement. After several long hours of discussions between economic actors in Algeria, with the presence for the first time of the Forum of Enterprises Chiefs (FCE), the leading organization of private employers In Algeria, several measures were announced. First decision made to satisfy the producers: Importing their raw materials will be facilitated. The controversial documentary credit (Crdoc), which slowed their supplies abroad, has been lifted. The Crdoc imposed since 2009 to all importers producers to initiate the opening of a documentary credit by contacting their bank then pass on that of the seller to ensure the exchange. The importer is found with blocked funds sometimes up to three months before receiving the goods with regard to paperwork delays. Its removal was one of the main demands of employers. On Saturday, Chairman of the FCE Rda Hamiani urged the authorities to treat fairly the public and private actions to remove the measure which inhibit the activity of producers such as the Crdoc. Authorities also announced that they will endorse now 2% of total 5.5% of interests rate applied to investment credits for PME, according to the final communiqu issued after the meeting. Government officially says that the business environment needs improvement. Algeria is ranked 136th among the 183 countries according to ranking on business climate established by the World Bank demanded by Algeria Bank, PM Ouyahia said.

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I decided to speak publically about this issue to ensure that government as not locked in a positions of a winner. There are achievements in the economic sector which should be reported as there are shortcomings to be overcome, he added. According to Ouyahia, the state remains the largest investor in Algeria with $14 b spent in development since January 2010. Another meeting between government, employers and the syndical federation on social issues is scheduled for September. Last tripartite held in December 2009 set the national minimum wage (SNMG) at 15.000 DA (150 Euros). It has not been revised since that meeting but systematic strikes launched since the beginning of 2011 push the government to grant large wages increases in public sector up to 70% with some retroactive cases in January 2008.

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Working environment The context

Algeria hosts one of the most enduring refugee situations in the world. The Sahrawi refugees who arrived from Western Sahara in 1975 and 1976 were recognized as refugees on a basis. The Government estimates the number of Sahrawi refugees in the camps at 165,000. Pending a registration exercise, UNHCR's assistance programme continues to be based on a planning figure of 90,000 vulnerable refugees in the camps. Since November 2007, UNHCR and WFP have been distributing 125,000 food rations in an effort to improve the refugees' nutritional status in the camps. Algeria is confronting the effects of mixed migration flows and often serves as a transit point for human smuggling. Within these flows are people who fall under UNHCR's mandate. Algeria is a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol and has approached UNHCR to assist in developing a comprehensive asylum system. UNHCR registers asylum claims and engages in refugee status determination (RSD) under its mandate. At the end of August 2010, UNHCR had registered 140 refugees and more than 300 asylum-seekers living in urban areas, originating mainly from sub-Saharan African countries. A number of well-integrated Palestinian refugees also live in the country.

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The Needs
The Government does not provide legal status to urban refugees and asylum-seekers as they are considered illegal migrants. They face arrest, detention and, occasionally, expulsion for illegal entry or stay in the country. Sexual and gender-based violence against refugee women and girls is also reported. A recent participatory assessment showed that the lack of access to adequate shelter and unmet needs for residence and work permits remain the main difficulties faced by urban refugees and asylum-seekers in Algeria. Given the aridity and remoteness of the Tindouf region in which their camps are located, the Sahrawi refugees continue to depend on international assistance for their survival. UNHCR is reorienting its programme to further invest in the long-term welfare of these refugees.

Main objectives and targets

Favorable protection environment The protection space for urban refugees is improved, particularly by increasing access to asylum.

Access to asylum is increased by 20 per cent through UNHCR's capacity to register asylum-seekers and determine their claims. No refugees are deported for reasons of illegal entry or stay in the country. Recognition and validation of UNHCR documentation by the national law enforcement structures is strengthened, to the benefit of detained persons of concern.

Parliamentarians are mobilized and key Government institutions sensitized on refugee issues through a training plan.

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Contributions since 2000 Year 2011 As at 30 June 2011 USD 100,000

100,000 Total contribution in USD: 100,000 (rank: 40) Unrestricted contribution (USD): 100,000 (rank: 2010 29) Donor ranking per GDP: 42 Donor ranking per capita: 48 100,000 Total contribution in USD: 100,000 (rank: 41) Unrestricted contribution (USD): 100,000 (rank: 2009 29) Donor ranking per GDP: 44 Donor ranking per capita: 48 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 60,000 60,000 60,000 60,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000

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Basic needs and services

The living conditions in the refugee camps are improved, particularly for women and children.

Some 27,000 refugee households benefit from improved shelter. Refugees have access to water in accordance with UNHCR's minimum standards. The nutritional status of refugees is improved by providing them with larger food baskets and fresh food, particularly during the month of Ramadan.

Vulnerable refugee families receive green tea and dried yeast to enrich their food basket. Refugees enjoy satisfactory sanitary conditions in schools, hospitals and at home. Adequate infrastructure and sufficient supplies of stationery and equipment help to improve education.

Financial information
The budget for UNHCR operations in Algeria was increased in 2006 due to floods in the refugee camps and in 2008 following the bombing of the office in Algiers. In 2010 and 2011, following a comprehensive needs assessment, the budget grew significantly to allow the Office to meet the basic needs of refugees in areas where major gaps have persisted for many years.

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